Operations Manager

First Kick Football; Preston; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Preston is seeking an Operations Manager to lead programme delivery and manage day-to-day operations. The role involves coordinating team activities, engaging with service users, and supporting the organization's growth through strategic initiatives. Ideal candidates have strong organizational and communication skills, relevant experience, and a passion for community engagement. This full-time, permanent position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous annual leave

Wellbeing days

Opportunities for training and development

Qualifications

• Previous experience in an operations, project management, or programme coordination role.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience supporting or managing staff teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and daily management of all programmes.
• Manage the recruitment of service users for all programmes.
• Work collaboratively with the Community Manager for marketing.
• Oversee logistics and compliance with operational policies.
• Contribute to reporting and evaluation for funders.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Team management

Time management

Knowledge of safeguarding

Passion for community engagement

Education

Relevant qualification in sport, education, youth work, or project management

Tools

Marketing tools (e.g., Canva)

Job description

Job description:

Job Title: Operations Manager

Location:Preston (PR5 4LA) – Office-based with some local travel

Salary:£30,000–£34,000 (dependent on experience)

Contract:Full-time, Permanent

About First Kick Foundation

First Kick Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving physical and mental wellbeing through accessible sport, health, and enrichment programmes. We work with children, young people, and families across Preston and the wider North West — delivering school-based sport, HAF holiday provision, and targeted community initiatives that create real impact.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking an organised, driven, and community-focusedOperations Managerto oversee the smooth running of our core programmes and support the Head of Foundation with the day-to-day operations of the charity.

Role Overview

The Operations Manager will play a critical role in leading the delivery and development of all First Kick Foundation programmes — including HAF camps, school-based sport, and community outreach. This role will oversee team coordination, service user recruitment, marketing support, and general operations. You’ll be the engine behind programme delivery — keeping things running smoothly while the Head of Foundation focuses on funding and future growth.

Key ResponsibilitiesProgramme Leadership & Delivery

• Lead the planning, coordination, and day-to-day management of all programmes — including HAF, schools delivery, and community-based projects.
• Ensure programmes are delivered safely, on time, and in line with expected outcomes and KPIs.
• Work closely with the Head of Foundation to implement delivery strategies that align with the organisation’s goals and values.
• Support the training, scheduling, and management of delivery staff and volunteers.
• Monitor attendance, impact data, and service feedback to ensure continuous improvement.

Service User Recruitment & Engagement

• Manage the recruitment of service users for all programmes, including direct outreach and working with referral partners, schools, and families.
• Oversee registration systems, ensure accurate data entry, and manage sign-up and attendance tracking.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with schools, parents, youth organisations, and community stakeholders.

Marketing & Communications Support

• Work collaboratively with the Community Manager to promote upcoming programmes and highlight impact.
• Provide input and content for social media, newsletters, case studies, and website updates.
• Represent the Foundation at community events, school meetings, and networking opportunities when needed.

Strategic Development & School Offer Expansion

• Support the strategic growth of our schools-based offer by identifying partnership opportunities and helping develop tailored delivery packages.
• Assist with scoping new project ideas and identifying delivery opportunities based on community need and feedback.

General Operations Management

• Oversee logistics, scheduling, staffing rotas, and resource planning for all programme delivery.
• Ensure operational compliance with safeguarding, GDPR, risk management, and health & safety policies.
• Maintain accurate records of delivery activity, staff timesheets, and incident reporting.
• Contribute to internal reporting, project evaluation, and funder updates.
• Support day-to-day administration and internal operations — acting as a key point of contact for delivery teams and external partners.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Previous experience in an operations, project management, or programme coordination role.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities.
• Confident communicator, able to liaise with a wide range of stakeholders including schools, staff, and families.
• Experience supporting or managing staff teams.
• Sound knowledge of safeguarding and inclusive working practices.
• Passionate about using sport and community engagement to improve lives.

Desirable:

• Experience coordinating school-based or holiday provision (e.g. HAF).
• Familiarity with working in the charitable or not-for-profit sector.
• Understanding of funding reporting and impact evaluation.
• Marketing or communications experience (e.g. social media, newsletters, Canva).
• A relevant qualification in sport, education, youth work, or project management.

What We Offer

• A key leadership role in a growing, values-led organisation.
• A supportive team committed to development and innovation.
• Opportunities for training, personal development, and career progression.
• Competitive salary with generous annual leave and wellbeing days.

How to Apply

• Please send your CV and a short covering letter outlining your suitability for the role [e-mail].